Midlothian Snowsports Centre is to have a £500,000 upgrade which will include extending the existing artificial piste and adding a new nursery slope.

Sportscotland, the national agency for sport, is funding the upgrade at the facility, known locally as Hillend Ski Slope, which will include safer ski matting, new chairlifts and snowtubing runs.

The Scottish Government and Sportscotland was forced to step in with a £1 million funding package earlier this year to save the UK's largest artificial ski slope from closure.

Midlothian Council, which operates the Midlothian Snowsports Centre, said it could no longer afford to run the facility.

In February Sportscotland pledged to give £533,000 and the Scottish government £400,000 to save the centre after an internet campaign garnered support from more than 27,000 people.

After the funding was in place, Midlothian Council agreed to discuss long term plans for the centre, including potentially a new hotel or accommodation complex.

Russell Imrie, Midlothian Council planning committee chairman, said today: "This time last year the facility was looking tired but this investment will give the centre a considerable makeover.

"We also hope that the private sector will join us in looking at investment and business development opportunities to help make Midlothian Snowsports Centre a national tourism gateway."

Derek Milligan, Midlothian Council's leader, added: "We hope these exciting plans for this national facility will have a positive impact on snowsports for people across the country by helping to maximise the full potential of the site.

"However the long-term future of the centre relies on a commitment by the Scottish government to provide ongoing national funding."